Comparative study of loop ileostomy vs loop transverse colostomy as a covering stoma after low anterior resection for rectal cancer

Abstract

Background After low anterior resection for rectal cancer, construction of a stoma for coverage of anastomosis is sometimes mandatory. Although loop ileostomy may be easily constructed and easily closed, it may have some complications related to fluid and electrolyte imbalance, especially in comorbid vulnerable patients. Aim This study aims to compare loop ileostomy and loop transverse colostomy as a covering stoma technique after resection of middle and low rectal cancer. Patients and methods This double-blind prospective study was done in a single institute on 70 patients diagnosed as having primary middle and low rectal cancer who underwent low anterior resection and ultra-low anterior resection and covering stoma was decided. Cases underwent surgery between October 2016 and January 2019. Patients were allocated to group A (ileostomy group) and group B (colostomy group). Results A total of 33 patients were in group A (ileostomy group) and 37 patients were in group B (colostomy group). Significantly higher rates of stoma-related complications were encountered in the loop ileostomy group (75.6(%than in loop transverse colostomy group (43.2%). Peristomal dermatitis was the highest occurring complication. Moreover, significantly higher rates of stoma reversal-related complications were encountered in the loop ileostomy group (45.4(%than in loop transverse colostomy group (13.5%). Diarrhea was the highest occurring complication. Conclusion Regarding stoma-related complications and stoma reversal perioperative complications, loop transverse colostomy was significantly better than loop ileostomy.